City Profile

Hopkinsville, Kentucky

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

Overall Score

Hopkinsville, Kentucky, serves as the county seat of Christian County, offering a blend of small-town charm and essential urban amenities. The city is strategically located near Fort Campbell, a major U.S. Army installation, which significantly influences its economy and community dynamics. Known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Hopkinsville attracts residents seeking a quieter pace of life without sacrificing access to local conveniences and nearby larger markets like Clarksville, Tennessee. The city boasts a rich history, including its role in the Trail of Tears and the Black Patch Tobacco Wars, which are commemorated through local attractions and historical sites.

People are drawn to Hopkinsville for its affordability, particularly in housing, where buyers can often find more spacious homes and yards compared to many larger metropolitan areas. The community offers a mix of established neighborhoods and newer residential developments, catering to a diverse population that includes first-time homebuyers, military families, and retirees. Its practical, down-to-earth feel, combined with a strong connection to the Fort Campbell area, makes Hopkinsville a compelling place to live for those valuing space, value, and accessibility.

About Kentucky

Kentucky, known as the Bluegrass State, offers a blend of Southern charm and Midwestern practicality with a rich heritage rooted in horse racing, bourbon, and bluegrass music. The economy is diverse, with manufacturing (especially automotive), healthcare, and agriculture (including horses, cattle, corn, and tobacco) being major industries. Living in Kentucky is generally affordable, with the cost of living estimated to be 10-12% lower than the national average, particularly for housing. The state experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm, humid summers and moderately cold, rainy winters. Residents enjoy a lifestyle that balances urban amenities in cities like Louisville and Lexington with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities and a strong sense of community.

Cost of Living Weather & Climate Jobs & Economy Quality of Life Safety Demographics Economy Transportation Healthcare Housing Nearby Cities Similar Cities FAQ

30,395

Population

$63K

Avg Salary

Cost Index

68.0

Quality Score

Performance

Quality Scores

Business

Livability

Affordability

Growth

Expenses

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking affordability. Housing expenses, including both renting and buying, are significantly more favorable compared to the U.S. average. For instance, the average rent in Hopkinsville is approximately $989 per month as of July 2026, which is considerably below the national median.

While housing drives much of the affordability, other essential costs like utilities also contribute to a lower overall expenditure. Average monthly utility costs in Hopkinsville are estimated at around $217.50, which is less than the statewide average for Kentucky. However, it's important to note that while many costs are lower, the city's crime rate is above the national average, which can be a consideration for residents.

Average Rent

$989/mo

Groceries

$400/mo

Transport

$120/mo

Utilities

$218/mo

Healthcare

$250/mo

Gym membership (monthly)

$40.00

Cinema ticket

$10.00

Restaurant meal (mid-range)

$22.00

Monthly groceries

$400.00

Doctor visit (without insurance)

$150.00

Income

Salary Insights

Hopkinsville's economy is powered by a diverse range of industries, with a significant impact from its proximity to Fort Campbell. As of 2024, the city's employed population was approximately 11,960, experiencing a 1.3% growth rate from the previous year. The largest employment sectors for residents include Manufacturing, Retail Trade, and Health Care & Social Assistance, indicating a varied job market.

Major employers in the area include Fort Campbell Army Post, Christian County Board of Education, Martinrea, and the Walmart Distribution Center, highlighting the importance of military, education, manufacturing, and logistics sectors. Agribusiness also remains a key sector, reflecting the region's agricultural roots. While the city's population has seen a slight decline, job growth in Kentucky, including Hopkinsville, has shown signs of improvement in 2026, suggesting a recovering job market.

The average salary in Hopkinsville is $62,602 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.

Employment

Top Industries

Retail Trade +1.00% Manufacturing +1.30% Health Care & Social Assistance +2.00% Public Administration/Military +1.50% Agribusiness +0.80%

Weather

Climate

🌡️

Avg Temp

☀️

Summer High

❄️

Winter Low

🌧️

Annual Rain

💧

70.00%

Humidity

🌤️

Sunny Days

Mobility

Transport

Getting around Hopkinsville primarily relies on personal vehicles, as evidenced by 92.9% of residents commuting by car. The average commute time for residents is approximately 21.3 minutes, which is typical for a city of its size. While there is limited public transit infrastructure, the city's layout and car ownership rates (averaging two cars per household) reflect a high degree of car dependency.

Walkability is not a primary mode of transport for most residents, with only 1.3% preferring to walk for their commute. This indicates that many areas may not be easily accessible on foot. Gas prices in Kentucky, including Hopkinsville, have fluctuated but generally remain a significant transportation expense for residents.

21 min

Avg Commute

25.00/10

Transit Score

30.00/10

Walkability

High

Car Dependency

At a Glance